FIND YOUR PLANNING ROUTE
Lawful Development Certificates & prior approval.
Lawful Development Certificates and prior approval are different routes. We help identify which, if either, fits your proposal.
Lawful Development Certificate
An LDC records whether the specified existing use or proposed works are lawful for planning purposes. It is not a general planning permission. The application needs evidence and drawings appropriate to the circumstances.
Proposed domestic works: from £1,140 including VAT (£950 + VAT). The starting package includes a measured survey, planning drawings and the certificate application for a straightforward proposal. Existing-use certificates are quoted after reviewing the evidence.
Prior approval
Certain permitted development routes require an application for prior approval. The matters considered and information required depend on the specific route. We check the proposal and relevant restrictions before preparing the application.
Larger home extensions: from £1,140 including VAT (£950 + VAT). Measured survey, drawings and application management for straightforward proposals. Changes of use and other prior approval routes require a tailored quotation.
What is included?
Within your agreed planning package
- Initial review of your proposal and planning route
- Measured survey and existing/proposed planning drawings
- Application preparation and submission as your agent
- Council correspondence through determination
- Explanation of the decision and next steps
Quoted separately where needed
- Council and Planning Portal charges
- Specialist heritage, tree, ecology, drainage or highways reports
- Building Regulations and structural engineering
- Additional design options or revisions outside the agreed scope
- Appeals and subsequent applications
Every project receives a written quotation confirming the survey extent, drawings, supporting documents, revisions and responsibilities before work starts.
Useful official guidance
Planning Portal: Lawful Development Certificates · Planning Portal: Prior approval
General information only. The applicable route depends on your site and proposal.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Let’s talk about your project.
A free online conversation to understand your plans and explain the next steps.